Orlando Furioso · Chapter
Canto III explained
Bradamant, restored to sense in Merlin's cave, meets the sage Melissa who reveals the prophecy of her illustrious lineage and instructs her on how to rescue Rogero from Atlantes' enchanted castle.
What happens
Bradamant, restored to sense in Merlin's cave, meets the sage Melissa who reveals the prophecy of her illustrious lineage and instructs her on how to rescue Rogero from Atlantes' enchanted castle. Melissa explains that Brunello possesses a magic ring that can nullify sorcery, and Bradamant must obtain it to free Rogero.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Astolpho, usin…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Magic and the Supernatural
Merlin's prophetic cave, Melissa's enchantments, and Atlantes' magical castle dominate the chapter.
- Fate and Free Will
Bradamant's destiny is foretold by Merlin, yet she must act to fulfill it by rescuing Rogero.
- Betrayal and Deception
Pinabel's treacherous act of pushing Bradamant into the cave exemplifies betrayal.
Characters to notice
- Bradamant
Restored to sense in Merlin's cave, receives prophecy of her lineage and instructions to rescue Rogero.
- Melissa
Sage enchantress who guides Bradamant, reveals the prophecy, and explains how to obtain Brunello's ring.
- Rogero
Imprisoned by Atlantes in an enchanted castle; Bradamant is tasked with his rescue.
- Pinabel
Traitor who pushed Bradamant into the cave and fled, believing her dead.
- Brunello
Baron of Agramant who carries the magic ring; Bradamant must take it from him.
- Atlantes
Enchanter who holds Rogero captive in a steel-walled castle.
- Agramant
King of Africa who sent Brunello with the ring to free Rogero.
Key passages
“Who will vouchsafe me voice that shall ascend As high as I would raise my noble theme?”
The poet invokes divine aid to sing of the illustrious Este lineage.
Opening invocation for the prophetic genealogy.
“This is the ancient memorable cave Which Merlin, that enchanter sage, did make:”
Melissa identifies the cave as Merlin's creation.
Setting the scene for the prophecy.
“King Agramant of Africa a ring. Thieved from an Indian queen by subtle guiles, Has to a baron of his following Consigned, who now precedes us by few miles; Brunello he.”
Melissa explains that Brunello carries a stolen ring that nullifies magic.
Key plot point for Rogero's rescue.
